Our lovely founder Architect Kelsey

Kelsey Matteson

Founder, kindle + make

Sculptor turned woodworker turned Architect, Kelsey Matteson delights in creating and finds beauty in everything. She is curious, imaginative, and excels in seeing the big picture of a project while refining the smallest details. Kelsey’s superpower is communication, and she is a welcome presence on any project team.

During her tenure in architecture, Kelsey has worked on office, grocery, retail, multi-family, and higher education projects. Her real love, however, is single family residential. She thrives in creating personal connections with her clients, and crafting a comfy place for a family to call home.

Kelsey is constantly learning and growing, whether that is taking a new crafting class or learning in the field from her clients and colleagues. Originally from Austin, Kelsey earned her Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Texas, where she also studied Engineering, French, Art, and Dance.

A true community member, Kelsey loves to make people laugh with her local improv comedy teams. She’s served up lattes at a nearby coffee shop. She is always finding fun things to do around town and connecting with people.

kindle + make is an architecture and design studio forged from a desire to bring warmth, wonder, and a touch of everyday magic into the built world. We believe spaces should spark joy, offer comfort, and feel like home — even when they surprise you. Rooted in cozy corners, quiet forests, and the soft glow of imagination, our work blends thoughtful design with a sense of story. From homes to havens, we craft spaces that feel both grounded and enchanted.